Jobs fair offering 500 youngsters

Businesses from across South Yorkshire will be given a chance to meet more than 500 school leavers at a special event returning to the city later this month.

‘Be Inspired’ has been organised by Skills Made Easy, a programme that provides impartial and practical advice to small and medium- sized businesses across Sheffield City Region planning to grow their workforce.

The event offers a free opportunity for businesses to raise their profile, showcase vacancies and meet teenagers who will be leaving school this summer and who are interested in apprenticeships.

Last year, more than 450 final year students attended Be Inspired and more than 180 vacancies were filled.

In one success story, DMF Digital, an independent Yorkshire-based record company, recruited 12 teenagers on a creative apprenticeship programme.

They went on to support 11 bands at Sheffield’s Tramlines Festival, as well as securing a group contract to run regular Friday night shows.

Laura Hayfield, programme manager at Skills Made Easy, said: “Last year’s event was an incredible success which helped businesses in the region to connect with school leavers currently considering their options.

“This year we wanted to extend the invitation further, offering the opportunity for even more local businesses to get involved.It’s a win-win for all.”

The event will be from 1.30pm to 4.30pm on Thursday, March 12, at Ponds Forge Sports Centre, Sheffield.

It is free to attend and there are limited places for small and medium-sized businesses to book a stand. Call 0114 229 6186 or email laura.hayfield@sheffield.gov.uk